Extraordinary 1867 Trophy Bat

Extremely impressive nineteenth-century trophy bat presented to Henry Fairchild, second baseman of the Clifton BBC, for his stellar performance in a series of games against the Actives BBC in July 1867. An engraved metal plaque that encircles the barrel provides the details of his accomplishment. The front reads: “Presented to Henry B. Fairchild Second Baseman of the Clifton BBC for the Best Score in the Home Run Match Cliftons vs. Actives/Actives vs. Cliftons July 19, 1867/Actives 42 Cliftons 52/H. B. Fairchild 9 runs 0 outs/Cliftons vs. Actives July 29, 1867/Cliftons 94 Actives 53/H. B. Fairchild 13 runs 0 outs. " The reverse reads "Presented by the Clifton BB Club" and lists the names of each of the ten team members. It appears that a metal cap or band was at one time affixed to the top of the barrel because a faint outline of its former position is visible upon close inspection. Nineteenth-century trophy bats are rare, especially those bearing detailed engravings such as this. Although we have been unable to find any information about either the Clifton or Active clubs (we are not even sure what state they hail from), their two matches on July 19th and July 29th in 1867, as well as Henry Fairchild's performance in those games, will forever be commemorated on this magnificent display piece. The bat, which measures 36 inches in length and weighs 45.2 ounces, displays moderate wear, including a number of minor indentations, scratches, and light surface marks. In Very Good to Excellent condition overall.

SOLD FOR $5,400

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